How do you build a sustainable financial advisory business that values the talent of its people as a competitive advantage against the rise of AI?In this episode of "The Business Philosopher Podcast," host Bhavesh Naik sits down with Brett Bernstein, CEO and co-founder of XML Financial Group, to explore how to create organizations that prioritize people, nurture emotional intelligence and drive sustainable growth. From building a legacy-focused culture to navigating mergers and acquisitions, Brett shares his unique philosophy on leadership, effective communication and empowering teams to thrive.Among the topics we explored:The "bottom-up strategy" to approach to setting people-centric goals. How it helps a company create trackable KPIs and build an engaged work culture.How to achieve exponential business growth that outperforms AI-based advisory services. Hint: Build it around natural intelligence. The strategies for aligning company cultures after expansion through mergers and acquisitions. How to sustain a vibrant company culture even during expansion. The role of innovation and mentorship in building enduring businesses. Strategies for creating a company culture where people don't want to leave. The tight-rope that a leader in a professional services firm has to walk while leading the dual role of a CEO and contributing professional. Key takeaways:Discover how collaboration and a strong client-service model fuel organizational growth.Learn how XML Financial Group scaled from 4 to 50+ employees across multiple locations.Understand the role of culture in creating a business that outlasts its founders.Explore the balance between being a leader and a practicing professional.Whether you're a business owner, aspiring leader, or curious about the intersection of people and performance, this conversation offers actionable insights for personal growth and professional success. Tune in to discover how you can apply these strategies to build lasting, people-centered businesses.#businessculture #businessgrowth #m&astrategies #clientrelationshipmanagement #employeeinvestmentCHAPTERS:00:00 - Introduction04:12 - What's in a Name? The Story Behind XML07:42 - Client-Centric Philosophy10:51 - Competitive Difference12:26 - Vision and Growth Strategy15:30 - Mergers and Acquisitions for Growth17:22 - Building a Legacy Business21:12 - Leadership and Culture in a Growing Firm23:23 - Installing a Culture Deck Vs Cultivating a Culture26:31 - Balancing Productivity and Happiness28:30 - The Role of KPIs in Business Growth31:19 - Navigating Leadership Through a Bottom-Up Approach32:44 - Essence of the Culture34:30 - Balancing Leadership and Advisory Roles38:43 - Overcoming Challenges & Learning from Setbacks41:11 - Personal Growth Through Life Experiences43:32 - Finding Grounding in a Fast-Paced World45:56 - Happiness as a Driver of Positive Relationships48:11 - The Importance of Communication in Business49:53 - AI's Role in Financial Advisory Services52:13 - Future Aspirations for XML Financial Group53:20 - Getting In Touch ~~~Music by Yrii Semchyshyn (Thank You!): https://www.patreon.com/yuriisemchyshyn~~~Deep Dive, Show Notes and Further Reading: https://www.awayre.com/scaling-people-first-advisory-firms-ai-talent-culture-legacy/

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